Ocala Christmas Parade
Celebrate 70 years of holiday tradition (1955-2025) with Ocala's beloved Christmas Parade! This year's theme "Christmas in Whoville, A Grinchmas" promises magical entertainment along our historic 1.6-mile downtown route.
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Event Details
Parade Route
Start: SE 25th Avenue & Ft. King Street
Route: North to E Silver Springs Blvd
Continue: West on Boulevard (1.6 miles)
Turn: North onto 8th Avenue
End: Near Tuscawilla Park at NE 3rd Street
Pre-Parade Events
Reindeer Run
Start your Christmas Parade day with the festive Reindeer Run! This holiday-themed fun run takes place in downtown Ocala and concludes well before the parade begins.
Time: 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Location: Downtown Square
Cost: $30 registration
Organizer: The Gaekwad Family / Radical Runs
Perfect for families and runners of all levels. Participants receive commemorative t-shirts and medals. A great way to kick off your Christmas Parade celebration!
Register for Reindeer RunWant to Participate?
1Float Applications
Join the parade with your organization's float! Applications are now open for businesses, community groups, schools, and organizations wanting to participate.
Application Deadline: October 30, 2025
2Vendor Applications
Set up along the parade route to serve spectators! Food vendors, crafters, and local businesses can apply to be part of the celebration.
Application Deadline: October 30, 2025
Mandatory packet pickup meeting in November (date TBA)
Spectator Information
🚗Road Closures
Road closures begin at 3:00 PM along the parade route. Plan your arrival early and expect delays in downtown Ocala.
📍Best Viewing Spots
Prime viewing locations along E Silver Springs Blvd and the downtown square area. Arrive early to secure the best spots.
❄️Weather Tips
December evenings can be cool in Florida. Bring blankets or layers for comfort during the outdoor parade viewing.
70 Years of Tradition
The Ocala Christmas Parade has been a cornerstone of Marion County's holiday celebrations since 1955, making 2025 a milestone 70th anniversary year. What began as a small community gathering has evolved into one of Central Florida's most anticipated annual events.
Over seven decades, the parade has brought together generations of families, local businesses, civic organizations, and community groups. The tradition has weathered changing times while maintaining its core mission: bringing joy and holiday spirit to the heart of Ocala.
Each year's theme creates excitement and creativity among participants, with floats, costumes, and performances reflecting both holiday traditions and contemporary community culture. The 2025 Grinch theme promises to be especially entertaining for families and Dr. Seuss fans of all ages.
Community Impact
- • Unites diverse community organizations and businesses
- • Provides family-friendly entertainment accessible to all
- • Supports local economy through increased downtown foot traffic
- • Preserves and celebrates Marion County's cultural heritage
- • Creates lasting memories for residents and visitors
More Information
Official Resources
Contact: OcalaParade@gmail.com
Local Authority
Only In Ocala's coverage of the Christmas Parade is researched and verified by local residents with decades of Marion County experience. Our team has attended and documented this tradition for years, ensuring accurate information for our community.